Double Down Special takes Ruidoso Derby by a neck

Double Down Special, who set a world record in April, became a Grade 1 winner on Saturday when he got up by a neck in the $568,965 Ruidoso Quarter Horse Derby.

Swingin Daddyo led to the late stages of the 400-yard race, and held second by three-quarters of a length over third-place finisher Sir Seth.

Double Down Special ($3.80) broke well and gradually picked up steam to overtake the leaders to win in 19.64 seconds. Salvador Martinez was aboard for trainer John Stinebaugh.

Double Down Special set a world record for 400 yards in April, when he won the Grade 3, $168,685 West Texas Derby at Sunland in 18.61. The race was his first win in a stakes. For his victory in the Ruidoso Derby, Double Down Special earned $284,572 for owner Vanessa Bartoo.

The Ruidoso Derby was the first of three major stakes for 3-year-olds at the meet. The next is the Rainbow on July 24, and it is followed by the All American on Sept. 5.